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Atrazine was the most widely used pesticide in Iowa, and applied to 69% of the state's planted acres. (Adobe Stock)

Common produce in IA tops 'Dirty Dozen' pesticide list

The Environmental Working Group has released a new list of produce items most and least affected by pesticides in Iowa and across the country…

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates up to 15 million acres of soybeans have been damaged by dicamba drifting beyond where it was applied. (Adobe Stock)

Court bans popular but controversial pesticide

A federal court has banned the use of a highly controversial but popular pesticide in the Midwest. Advocates for sustainable agriculture said the …

Large feeding operations keep many animals confined to a small, densely populated space. Unlike free-range farms where cows graze through a pasture, or chickens forage for food in fields, Confined Animal Feeding Operations bring feed to their animals, which remain stationary. (Adobe Stock)

State to Rewrite Manure Rules for CAFOs

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is updating the rules defining how manure is stored at animal feeding operations. For generations, …

Project developers have announced ambitions for more than 200 new capture facilities to be operating by 2030, capturing more than 220 metric tons of CO2 per year globally, according to the International Energy Agency. (Adobe Stock)

Environmentalists Build Opposition to CO2 Pipelines at Des Moines Hearing

The federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration regulates carbon dioxide pipelines, and is holding a two-day conference in Des …

A growing number of projects nationwide focus either on carbon dioxide capture or transport and storage to handle fuel-production byproducts, according to the International Energy Agency. (Adobe Stock)

Iowans Organize to Block Use of Eminent Domain for CO2 Pipelines

An environmental group will host an online rally tonight in support of a bill in the Iowa Legislature to block the use of eminent domain to build capt…

Researchers say long-term exposure to pesticides can result in a range of chronic health issues, including cancer. (Adobe Stock)

Will Pesticide Enforcement Get Caught Up in Trade Talks?

The U.S. is talking with several nations as part of an emerging framework for trade policy, and in the Midwest, there are concerns about the ripple …

Currently, there are nearly 1,300 Superfund sites on the National Priorities List, including 11 that are located in 10 Iowa towns and cities. (Adobe Stock)

Hazardous Site Costs Shift from Taxpayers Back to Polluters

Starting this month, chemical companies will resume being taxed for cleanup of areas with a lot of leftover toxic waste, also known as Superfund …

Aside from health risks, environmental officials say harmful algae blooms pose a threat to Iowa's water recreation industry. When beaches and other access points are temporarily shut down, it discourages plans for boating or swimming. (Adobe Stock)

Going Swimming? Be Mindful of Not-So-Clean Water

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of water recreation season, and before putting on a swimsuit, Iowa environmental experts say being mindful …

Analysts say carbon capture facilities and underground pipelines would require hundreds of billions of dollars in investments, but are likely to fall short of emission-reduction goals. (Adobe Stock)

Plans for Carbon Sequestration Pipeline for IA Questioned

DES MOINES, Iowa -- This fall, the Iowa Utilities Board is hosting meetings to inform the public about a proposed underground pipeline, which would …

Iowa will report water impairments on 622 river, lake and wetland segments to the Environmental Protection Agency as part of its biennial water quality summary, a 2% increase over the 2016 report. (centraliowapaddlers.org)

Iowa Supreme Court to Hear Raccoon River Lawsuit in 2020

DES MOINES, Iowa – A lawsuit over nutrient pollution in a portion of Iowa's Raccoon River will stretch into 2020 as arguments are heard by the …

A new poll from Iowa State University shows Sen. Elizabeth Warren was the top choice of 24% of likely Iowa caucus-goers. (peoplesaction.org)

Iowa CCI: No Bland Presidential Stump Speeches Allowed

DES MOINES, Iowa – Four Democratic presidential candidates have been confirmed for The People's Presidential Forum in Des Moines this weekend…

In the past few years, Western Iowa has had above-average growth of cover crop acreage compared to the rest of the state. (3360yale.edu)

Iowa Increases Cover-Crop Acreage, But at Slower Pace

DES MOINES, Iowa — The sustainable farming practice of cover cropping grew in Iowa in 2018, but is still far below the goal called for in …

The Environmental Protection Agency wants to undo rules that govern mercury and other toxic emissions, even while its own research shows the standards prevent 130,000 asthma attacks each year. (keckmedicine.org)

Iowa Mom Tells EPA: "Keep Mercury and Air Toxics Standards"

DES MOINES, Iowa - Exposure to mercury can negatively affect child development, including unborn children, and that's one reason critics are speaking …

Anita Christensen of Iowa, left, was among a group of 10 moms who visited Capitol Hill in Washington last week to oppose Andrew Wheeler's confirmation as E-P-A administrator. (partnership project)

Iowa Mom Raises Concern Over Wheeler as EPA Chief

DES MOINES, Iowa – Environmental advocate Anita Christensen traveled from Indianola to Washington last week, hoping to convince Sen. Joni Ernst …

Opponents of the Dakota Access Pipeline are hearing from Native American leaders and Iowa farmers as they march through Story, Boone and Webster counties ahead of an Iowa Supreme Court hearing next week. (boldiowa.com)

Opponents of Dakota Access Pipeline March Across Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa – This is the fourth day of a weeklong march across Iowa to raise awareness about a lawsuit headed to the Iowa Supreme Court …

Unintentional pesticide drift can result in unsellable crops and damage the health of people and animals. (panna.org)

Iowa Farmers: Communicate to Reduce Risks from Pesticide Drift

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa's record number of complaints about the misuse of pesticides last year has resulted in both online and in-person training for …

Cover crops grew on only 2.6 percent of Iowa's nearly 23 million acres of corn and soybeans in 2016. (crop watch.unl.edu)

Iowa Farmers Test Innovative Technique to Manage Cover Crops

AMES, Iowa — A new research project is underway to explore how Iowa farmers could use cover crops as a way to prevent soil, nitrogen and …

A new study says automobiles are so much cleaner than 100 years ago, perfumes and household cleaning agents are taking over the top spot for urban air pollution. (indoorpollution.info)

Study: Indoor Pollution Becoming Worse than Outdoor Pollution

DES MOINES, Iowa – A new study has come up with a surprising result: Because cars are now dramatically cleaner than they used to be, products …

Rob and Tammy Faux of Genuine Faux Farm have been victims of pesticide drift. (PFI)

Pesticide Drift Prevention: Communication Called Key

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Pesticide drift is not only unwanted and destructive, it is also illegal - and Iowa farmers are encouraged to learn more about …

Research indicates certain pesticides are likely to harm 97 percent of threatened or endangered species. (Pixabay)

Leaked Letters Show Chemical Co. Tried to Kill Pesticide Study

DES MOINES, Iowa – A conservation group is raising questions about Dow Chemical's attempts to convince the Trump administration to drop studies …

Some experts say growing urban/rural divide puts pressure on Iowa farmers to develop solutions to the state's water quality problems. (Carl Wycoff/Flickr)

Ending Iowa's Water-Quality Woes by Bridging Urban-Rural Divide?

DES MOINES, Iowa -- There's been a lot of focus on ensuring safe, affordable drinking water from public systems in Iowa’s urban centers…

Paint and other potentially hazardous products should never be disposed of down a drain or in a trash can. (faungg's photos/Flickr)

Fall Cleaning: Don’t Dump, Drop Off

DES MOINES, Iowa – Lawnmowers will soon be switched out for snow blowers in many Iowa garages, as homeowners assess what they'll need during …

A new survey shows young Republican voters strongly favor renewable energy. (Pixabay)

Bucking Trend? Poll Shows Young Republicans Want Renewables

DES MOINES, Iowa – Young conservatives overwhelmingly feel man made climate change is a real problem, according to a new national poll…

Ant-sized parasitic wasps are helping reduce emerald ash borers threatening millions of trees throughout Iowa. (Katja Schulz/Wikimedia Commons)

Tiny Wasps Helping Save Trees in Iowa

AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has introduced tiny, parasitic wasps to combat the invasive emerald ash …

Harmful algae outbreaks in Iowa lakes, ponds, streams and rivers are more likely during this time of year. (Lynn Betts/ USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service)

Iowa Heading Into Peak Blue-Green Algae Season

DES MOINES, Iowa – Toxic blue-green algae outbreaks that are harmful to humans and pets aren't limited to Florida where a state of emergency …

BPA, found in some food can linings, is linked to breast and prostate cancer, infertility, diabetes, obesity and other health problems. (sideshowmom/morguefile)

Report: Toxic Chemical in Canned Food Linings

DES MOINES, Iowa – Chemicals in the linings of most food cans may be dangerous to consumers, according to a new report released jointly by six …

Despite intense opposition, the Iowa Utilities Board has approved a permit for a new oil pipeline to stretch across Iowa, carrying nearly a half-million barrels a day. (thebakken.com)

Opponents Vow Legal Challenges to IUB Pipeline Decision

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Iowa Utilities Board voted 3-0 on Thursday to approve a permit that allows Texas-based Dakota Access Co. to build an oil …

The American Lung Association says reducing pollution from coal power plants will mean an improvement in public health. Credit: helt2.

Health Benefits for Iowa with Clean Power Plan

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Clean Power Plan recently finalized by the Environmental Protection Agency aims to curb climate change pollution from older …

A pair of reports suggest that the federal plan to cut carbon pollution from power plants will mean lower electricity bills for Iowa families. Credit: Kameleon007.

Lower Iowa Electricity Bills Predicted Under Clean Power Plan

DES MOINES, Iowa – Two new studies find the proposal by the Environmental Protection Agency to cut carbon pollution from the nation's existing …

Because they pose risks for health and the environment, items like cleaning products, batteries, lawn fertilizer and oil should never be tossed in the garbage or poured down the drain. Credit: U.S. Army Environmental Command/Flickr.

Help Keep Iowa Water Quality from Going Down the Drain

DES MOINES, Iowa - Hazardous household chemicals can build up around the home and garage quickly, but they can't be tossed with the regular garbage…

Opponents of the proposed Bakken oil pipeline says it would put the state's soil, waterways and communities at risk. Credit: Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement.

Opposition Mounts: Six Months to Bakken Pipeline Decision

DES MOINES, Iowa – Large sections of pipe are already being stockpiled along the proposed route through Iowa, but the approval of the Bakken …

The new federal Transportation Department safety rules for oil shipments by rail are being challenged in court with the petitioners saying they don't go far enough. Credit: Kirby Urner/Flickr.

Legal Challenge Brought Over Oil Train Safety Rules

DES MOINES, Iowa – A legal challenge has been mounted against the U.S. Department of Transportation, claiming proposed new agency rules don't …

PHOTO: There are more than 2,000 locations now on Iowa's Sensitive Crops Registry. The registry is used by pesticide applicators to minimize the potential for drift damage to fruit, vegetable and organic farms, along with bee hives. Photo credit: Andy Powell/Flickr.

Pesticide Drift: A Years-Long Loss for Iowa Organic Farms

DES MOINES, Iowa - When it comes to organic farming, Iowa has one of the largest numbers of certified operations in the nation, but there's a real …

PHOTO: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is being taken to court over its approval of an herbicide for use on genetically-engineered soybean and corn crops in Iowa and 14 other states. The plaintiffs allege the Dow AgroSciences product, Enlist Duo, poses a threat to human health and to endangered animal species. Photo credit: Jo Naylor/Flickr.

Another Challenge to New Herbicide for Use in Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa - A legal battle is being mounted against the Environmental Protection Agency over its expanded approval of a new herbicide for use …

PHOTO: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has kicked off its new Tips from Former Smokers campaign, highlighting the health effects of smoking on the body beyond the heart and lungs. Photo credit: Valentin Ottone/Flickr.

Former Smokers Centerpiece of New Anti-Smoking Campaign

DES MOINES, Iowa - Colon cancer, vision problems and myths about "vaping," a slang term for using e-cigarettes, are featured in a new CDC campaign …

PHOTO: With more than two million accidental poisonings in the U.S. each year, families are being urged this week to make sure any dangerous medications or household products are kept locked up or out of reach. Photo credit: Frankie Leon/Flickr.

Iowans Take Precautions for Poison Prevention Week

DES MOINES, Iowa - As National Poison Prevention Week continues, local experts say some simple steps around the home can help reduce the chances of …

PHOTO: New research finds that plans to reduce carbon pollution from aging power plants in Iowa and nationwide will not jeopardize the reliability of the country's power grid. Photo credit: k.e. mckenzie/Flickr.

Iowa's Future Power Grid: Clean Won't Jeopardize Reliability

DES MOINES, Iowa – As plans move forward for cutting carbon pollution from aging power plants in Iowa and across the country, new research …

PHOTO: A handful of organizations are taking the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to court, demanding action on pollution from the country's 20,000 livestock operations. Photo credit: Green Fire Productions/Flickr.

Coalition Sues EPA Over Factory Farm Pollution

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is being taken to court over the pollution from so-called factory farms in a case that …

PHOTO: The U.S. Public Interest Research Group argues McDonald's

"McChanges" Urged on Meat Raised with Antibiotics

DES MOINES, Iowa - A new campaign has been launched urging the largest restaurant chain in the nation to stop purchasing meat that's been raised with …

IMAGE: Homeowners across Iowa are being urged to take action this month by testing for radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer. Graphic credit: Pumbaa80/Wikimedia Commons.

Living with a Killer: Iowa Homes at High Risk for Radon

DES MOINES, Iowa – It really is often a matter of out of sight, out of mind, but radon is a deadly danger in homes across the state, and the …

PHOTO: There are ways to burn a more efficient fire to help reduce wood smoke, which is harmful to human health and can be a major source of air pollution. Photo credit: Steven Johnson/Flickr.

Burn Baby Burn? For Hottest Fire, Use Driest Wood

DES MOINES, Iowa – Burning a cleaner fire in wood stoves or fireplaces over the winter months is helpful to the health of Iowans, and also to …

PHOTO: Iowa law enforcement has already seized some 64,000 grams of methamphetamine in 2014, marking a nine-year high. Photo credit: Nathan Jongewaard/Flickr.

Iowa's Meth Resurgence: More Smuggling, More Potent

DES MOINES, Iowa - There are changing trends when it comes to the scourge of methamphetamine in Iowa, but the drug's dangerous and deadly grip …

PHOTO: Iowa accounts for a quarter of the nation's annual ethanol fuel production, and a new poll demonstrates voters on both sides of the aisle support the use of cleaner fuels and renewable energy. Photo credit: Jeff Easter/Flickr.

Iowa Voters Want Congressional Action on Renewable Energy

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa has become a leader in ethanol production and wind power, and when the new Congress is sworn into office in January, voters …

PHOTO: Those who rely on local and fresh foods in Iowa are asking for more careful application of pesticides by farmers who use them on their crops. Photo credit: Carl Wycoff/Flickr

Produce, Pesticides Can Coexist in IA, But Only with Proper Planning

DES MOINES, Iowa - The picnic tables will be loaded with fresh foods as friends and family gather for the Fourth of July, but some in Iowa believe …

PHOTO: A new report finds Iowa manufacturers have more to lose from disruptions caused by climate change than the costs associated with proposed EPA carbon standards. Photo credit: Taneli Rajala/wikimedia commons.

Report: Climate Change Disruptions Cost Iowa Manufacturers Millions

DES MOINES, Iowa – A new report finds the cost of the Environmental Protection Agency’s new carbon pollution standards is modest when …

PHOTO: A new analysis finds that 28 percent of Iowa's public school students attend classes within one mile of a so-called high-risk chemical facility. That's the second highest rate in the country. Image courtesy Center for Effective Government.

1-in-4 IA Kids at Schools Near High-Risk Chemical Facilities

DES MOINES, Iowa - It's a dubious distinction for Iowa: The state has the nation's second-highest percentage of children attending school near a so-…

PHOTO: A new group of Iowans has just been trained as

Catch My Drift: Monitoring for Pesticides in Iowa

DEWITT, Iowa - With the coming start of the growing season in Iowa, a group of volunteer "drift catchers" is preparing to spread out across the state …

PHOTO: In cities across the state, cleanup days and events are on the calendars in the weeks ahead, helping residents properly dispose of items that can't be trashed. Photo credit: Loren Kerns

Cleanup Events are Springing Up Across Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa - With more seasonable weather now settling in, folks across Iowa are being reminded that not everything can just go into the trash …

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